Waikato River Trail developments

The feasibility studies, which Trust Waikato granted $3,500 towards, have resulted in two projects to extend the Waikato River Trails.

The trail extension into Atiamuri village has a $78,000 budget, 50% funded by Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment. This project will be completed by the end of Q1 2019.

The trail and bridge, to be constructed as an alternative to the Tumai steps, has a $663,000 budget, which is 80% funded by Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and 20% funded by the South Waikato Investment Fund Trust. This project is underway and will be completed by the end of quarter 1, 2019.

The new trail and bridge project is one of 7 priority projects on the network of 22 great rides across New Zealand. These projects were chosen as they both fit Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s drive to take all trails in the network “from good to great”.

The Waikato River trails are in the heart of the South Waikato and extend from Atiamuri in the south to Lake Karapiro in the north. The trail is 103km long and explores New Zealand’s longest river along a mix of grasslands, open reserves and board walks. It takes in five hydro lakes, Whakamaru, Maraitai, Waipapa, Arapuni, Karapiro.

The trail has also become an enabler of native riparian enhancement close to the river and more native plant species are being planted close to the river. There is something for everyone on the trail, walking or riding short, easy journeys or taking on the full trail.

Trust Waikato aims to increase resilience in rural and small communities. We are proud to support this project, which reconnects people to nature, and strengthens the kaitiakitanga of our national taonga.